5 Ways to Quit Your Side Gig Without Guilt

Evaluating the Benefits of Your Side Gig

While a side gig often starts as an exciting way to make extra money, it’s not uncommon for individuals to overextend themselves and eventually burn out. According to a 2023 Self Financial survey, approximately two out of five people report that their side hustle is more stressful than their regular job. If you find yourself in this situation, or if you simply feel that your side gig isn’t right for you, there are steps you can take before deciding to quit.

Earning passive income doesn’t have to be complicated. You can start this week by evaluating the benefits of your current side gig. It may be tempting to walk away when things get tough, but it’s important to step back and assess the situation first.

Lynn Berger, a licensed mental health counselor and career counselor, suggests taking a practical and psychological approach. Ask yourself: Are you reaping financial benefits from your side gig? How satisfying is the work on a personal level? There could be a scenario where you’re making good money and enjoy the work, but the stress comes from your main job. In such cases, consider adjusting your schedule—maybe starting your side gig earlier in the day so you have more energy for it.

On the other hand, if you're not seeing much financial or emotional benefit from your side gig, it might be time to rethink your approach. This could mean exploring different opportunities or even considering a complete pivot.

Slowing Down and Making Thoughtful Decisions

Even if you feel like quitting your side gig, it's wise to avoid making rash decisions. Sometimes, with a little time and space, you can rediscover the value of your side hustle. Taking a break can help you gain clarity. For instance, if your side gig involves client work, you might decide to stop taking on new clients for a while or inform your current ones that you need more time to complete projects. Practicing underpromising can help manage expectations and reduce pressure.

Giving Clients Proper Notice

When leaving a full-time job, it's standard to give two weeks’ notice as a courtesy to your employer. The same principle applies to side gig clients. If you've built relationships with your clients, it's important to let them know you're winding down your services. You might even go the extra mile by referring them to another service provider. This can help maintain goodwill and potentially open the door for future collaboration.

Consider keeping in touch with your clients through professional platforms like LinkedIn, especially if you haven’t connected already. This can help maintain a positive relationship even after you’ve moved on.

Exploring New Opportunities

If you're determined to stop your current side gig, one option is to pivot into a different type of side gig. For example, if your current work involves graphic design for corporate clients and you're feeling burned out, you might consider transitioning to teaching art classes online through platforms like Wyzant. This allows you to explore a new passion while still earning income.

Volunteering is another great alternative. Whether it's at your local library or a community center, volunteering can provide a creative outlet and help you gain experience that could be valuable for future roles.

Focusing on Your Primary Job

Before making any major changes, consider whether there’s more you can get out of your main job. If you’re planning to leave your side gig, it’s important to ensure that the loss of income or experience won’t be detrimental. Focus on your primary position and explore potential upside. If there’s no clear path for growth, consider discussing promotions, role changes, or increased responsibilities with your supervisor.

This could lead to long-term financial rewards and better opportunities in the future. Even if immediate gains aren't possible, gaining more experience at your current job can strengthen your resume and improve your chances of landing a higher-paying role elsewhere.